Family Studies Bachelor
Mount Saint Vincent University Campus, Canada
Bachelor of Arts in Family Studies
Mount Saint Vincent University
Family Studies / Family Science
Bachelor of Arts in Family Studies at MSVU
The Bachelor of Arts in Family Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University examines contemporary issues affecting families, including family dynamics, diversity, and development from the perspectives of different disciplines. Housed within the Department of Aging and Family Science, this program focuses on family dynamics and diversity within an increasingly complex society, helping you understand the trends, challenges, and developments in the health and human service delivery system.
You can choose to study toward a major, an honours, a combined major, a concentration, or a minor in Family Science. These flexible pathways complement studies in related programs such as sociology, psychology, public policy, or women's studies, allowing you to tailor your degree to your career goals.
As you pursue the Family Science program, you will develop your capacity to work in professional environments where knowledge of family studies is essential. The program builds teamwork, leadership, interpersonal communication, conflict management, and advocacy skills through diverse coursework, group projects, and a community-based practicum placement.
Program Highlights
- Flexible study options including major, honours, combined major, concentration, or minor pathways in Family Science
- Community-based practicum placement providing hands-on professional experience in family service settings
- Small class sizes averaging around 23 students, fostering close interaction with faculty and peers
- Courses count toward the Family Studies teachable subject for those pursuing a career in education in Nova Scotia
Curriculum and Course Modules
The Family Studies BA curriculum combines foundational courses in aging and family science with research methods, communication skills, and a hands-on practicum. The major requires approximately 5.5 units of core Aging and Family Science courses, 2.5 units of required Arts and Science courses, and additional select and general electives to complete the 15.5-unit degree.
Introduction to Family Science (AGFS 1100)
0.5 unitsAn examination of contemporary families including family dynamics, diversity, and development from the perspectives of different disciplines. Topics may include same-sex families, parenting styles, poverty, work-family balance, and mass-media influences.
Introduction to Aging (AGFS 1101)
0.5 unitsAn examination of individual and social implications of population aging from the perspectives of different disciplines. Topics may include care of aging parents, retirement, health, and financial security.
Family and Aging Policies (AGFS 2400)
0.5 unitsAn overview of Canadian public policies supporting families and older persons, exploring current policies, instruments, implementation, and the extent to which they meet their goals.
Interpersonal Communication Skills (AGFS 3327)
0.5 unitsThe study and practice of basic interpersonal communication skills such as open and closed questions, paraphrasing, reflection of feeling and meaning, and confrontation for professionals in family and aging service settings.
Family Science/Aging Theories (AGFS 3480)
0.5 unitsAn exploration of family and aging theories relevant to practice within the fields of family science and aging. The concept of praxis, that theory and practice inform each other, serves as the philosophical foundation of the course.
Aging/Family Science Practicum (AGFS 4300)
0.5 unitsA place-based learning opportunity in the community that supports the attainment of entry-level professional competencies. Students explore the roles, responsibilities, and challenges of a selected community-based partner, participating in planning, implementing, or evaluating a program or policy.
Select Electives
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Family Studies at MSVU is based on your academic record and completion of prerequisite coursework. International applicants must also demonstrate English language proficiency. Reach out to Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on preparing your application.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary school with required academic courses
- Minimum AverageContact Uni4Edu for current minimum grade requirements
- Required SubjectsEnglish and additional academic courses as specified by MSVU admissions
- Major DeclarationStudents must declare their major before registering for their sixth unit of coursework
- Honours AdmissionRequires at least 10.0 units completed including AGFS 3330 and 3480 with a 3.0 GPA in Aging and Family Science courses
English Language Requirements
- TOEFLContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current minimum band score requirements
- CAELCanadian Academic English Language Test accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Mount Saint Vincent University offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities for both domestic and international students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for funding that matches your profile and academic achievements.
MSVU Entrance Scholarships
Merit-based entrance scholarships are available to incoming students who demonstrate strong academic performance in their secondary school studies.
MSVU In-Course Scholarships
Continuing students who maintain high academic standing may be eligible for in-course scholarships and awards throughout their degree program.
External Bursaries and Awards
VariesA range of external bursaries, government grants, and need-based financial aid options are available. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Family Studies Graduates
Graduates of the Family Studies program at MSVU are prepared for a variety of careers in the social welfare, aging policy, and family support sectors that focus on prevention, support, and community development. The program's combination of theoretical knowledge, research skills, and practicum experience positions you for meaningful work with individuals and families across the life course.
Potential Career Paths
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Mount Saint Vincent University is a publicly funded, primarily undergraduate institution in Halifax, Nova Scotia, recognized for its commitment to accessible education and strong community focus. While MSVU is a smaller institution, it is consistently listed in national and international ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #54 in Canada |
| Psychology | EduRank | #51 in Canada |
| Arts and Design | EduRank (North America) | #488 |
| Media Studies | EduRank | #612 Globally |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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